Trump Announces Suspect in Charlie Kirk Shooting in Custody: Watch the Exclusive Video
President Donald Trump delivered a bombshell update on national TV, declaring with “high certainty” that the suspect in the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk is now in custody. The announcement, made during a live Fox News interview, caps a tense 24-hour manhunt and has ignited widespread reactions across the U.S.
Trump’s Live Fox News Revelation
In a Friday morning appearance on “Fox & Friends,” President Trump broke the news about the arrest, crediting law enforcement and a tip from someone close to the suspect. “I think with a high degree of certainty, we have him in custody,” Trump stated, adding that “everybody did a great job.” He suggested the suspect’s father played a key role in turning him in, saying, “The father convinced the son.”
The video clip of Trump’s comments, which has gone viral on social media, shows the president expressing relief while honoring Kirk as “the finest person” and hoping for the death penalty for the perpetrator. Trump also praised the collaborative effort between federal agents, local police, and Utah Governor Spencer Cox.
This comes just hours after the FBI released new video footage of the suspect fleeing the scene, intensifying the public appeal for tips. The $100,000 reward offered by the bureau may have contributed to the breakthrough.
Details of the Shooting and Manhunt
Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and a key Trump ally, was fatally shot in the neck during a “Prove Me Wrong” event at Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. The outdoor gathering drew over 3,000 attendees when a single high-powered rifle shot rang out from the rooftop of the nearby Losee Center, about 400 feet away.
Kirk had just addressed a question on gun violence when he collapsed. He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries en route. Authorities recovered a bolt-action rifle in nearby woods, along with casings bearing provocative inscriptions like “Hey fascist! Catch!” hinting at a possible political motive.
The manhunt spanned more than 30 hours, involving the FBI, Utah Department of Public Safety, and local forces. Early detentions of two unrelated individuals were released without charges. Newly released FBI video shows the suspect—described as a college-age male in a hat, sunglasses, and black long-sleeve shirt—running across the roof, firing, and jumping down before fleeing into a wooded area and residential neighborhood.
Suspect Identified as Tyler Robinson
Multiple law enforcement sources have identified the man in custody as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson from Utah. Contrary to Trump’s estimate of “28 or 29,” Robinson is a local resident whose father, a Washington County Sheriff’s deputy and MAGA supporter, reportedly convinced him to surrender.
Robinson was taken into custody late Thursday in St. George, Utah, about 260 miles south of the UVU campus, after a family friend tipped off authorities upon recognizing him from FBI photos. He faces first-degree murder charges, with Utah officials describing the attack as a “targeted political assassination.” A press conference by FBI Director Kash Patel and state officials is scheduled for later today to provide more details.
Social media unearthed videos of Robinson, fueling speculation about his background, though authorities caution against unverified claims.
Public Reactions and Expert Commentary
Trump’s announcement drew immediate praise from conservatives. Vice President JD Vance called Kirk a “martyr for truth,” while House Speaker Mike Johnson labeled the killing “detestable.” Bipartisan figures, including former President Bill Clinton, condemned the violence, with Clinton stating he was “saddened and angered.”
On X, reactions ranged from relief—”Finally, justice for Charlie!”—to conspiracy theories questioning the arrest’s speed. One post shared Trump’s video clip, garnering thousands of views.
Experts like former FBI Assistant Director Jennifer Turner noted, “This rapid resolution highlights effective inter-agency work, but the motive investigation will be crucial.” Governor Cox vowed to pursue the death penalty, emphasizing Utah’s stance on such crimes. However, disinformation warnings from officials urge caution amid online rumors.
Implications for U.S. Politics and Public Safety
For American readers, this tragedy amplifies concerns over political violence in a divided nation. Kirk’s role in mobilizing young conservatives for Trump’s 2024 win made him a high-profile target, potentially chilling free speech on campuses and at public events. Fellow activists like Riley Gaines have voiced fears for their safety, leading some lawmakers to cancel appearances.
Politically, Trump’s posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom for Kirk underscores his influence, while flags at half-staff honor the loss. Economically, Turning Point USA’s operations may face disruptions, affecting conservative fundraising and youth outreach programs. Lifestyle impacts include heightened security at universities like UVU, now closed through Monday, affecting students’ daily routines.
Technologically, the FBI’s use of surveillance video and public tips via social media demonstrates evolving investigative tools, but also risks of misinformation spread.
Conclusion: Justice Advances, But Healing Begins
President Trump’s video announcement marks a pivotal moment in the Charlie Kirk shooting case, with suspect Tyler Robinson in custody after a swift manhunt. As investigations delve into motives and evidence, the nation mourns a key conservative voice while grappling with rising political tensions.
With trials ahead and memorials planned, this event calls for unity against violence. Authorities promise full transparency, offering hope for closure in a story that has gripped America.
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